I stayed at the Essex House about a year ago and had a rather unremarkable stay. The hotel forgot my wake-up call which was annoying given that I was there for business, and my room, which did not face the park, was essentially facing a very loud construction site. Room service was adequate, though not great. The gym was small, but fine for a hotel gym. If you really want to stay in the central park area, I assume you have also looked at the Ritz and the Pierre? Although considering you mention soho/Tribeca, have you looked at hotels in other parts of the city? Not in soho, but two hotels I have always enjoyed are the Gramercy Park Hotel and the Bowery hotel. Cooper Square may have good rates now that it is undergoing a management change. I also like the Crosby, but that may be too expensive. I would avoid the Mondrian Soho. Also, occasionally the Trump Soho has some good deals.